Brunnquell, Donald J. 71, died at home on December 30, surrounded by his family and music he loved. Don was devoted, wise, kind, and thoughtful in all he did. Don was raised in New Jersey and loved the many summers he spent with his grandparents in rural PA. He studied psychology and literature at Lawrence University in Appleton, WI. After a Fulbright Scholarship in Germany, he received a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Minnesota and began a 36 year career at Children's Minnesota (initially at Children's Hospital - Minneapolis). He was a psychologist and later, VP for Human Ecology. After receiving a Bush Foundation Leadership grant to study bioethics at the U of M, he became director of the Children's bioethics service, helping children and families through what were often the most difficult times and decisions of their lives. He taught psychology ethics and pediatric bioethics at the U of M for many years. He thought deeply about life and death and medical ethics. He taught, published, and presented on the issues and was a generous guide and resource to many along the way. Don started writing poetry and playing guitar as a teenager and never stopped. He played and sang in a band, led singalongs for all ages, wrote songs and limericks, and had an encyclopedic knowledge of kids' songs and folk song lyrics. He called square dances and played the spoons. He loved Gopher basketball, Scoresheet baseball, soccer, theater, and a wide range of classical, folk, and bluegrass music. He loved bringing people together, particularly with music and poetry. He leaves behind a large collection of poems, documenting a life well lived and well observed, as well as his love for his family and friends. Don created a legacy of love and connection that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be greatly missed by his wife and partner of over 43 years, Sally Scoggin, his two sons Mike Brunnquell (Alex Caldwell) and Will Brunnquell (Christina Brunnquell), his four grandchildren (Zoe, Josephine, Greta and Ezra), his sister, Darla Brunnquell, his extended family, and the many friends and colleagues with whom he shared his life. A Celebration of Don's life will be held at Unity Church Unitarian at 733 Portland Ave. Saint Paul, MN on February 2, 2023, at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Children's Minnesota Foundation, Ujamaa Place or another charity that reflects Don's values.

Published on January 14, 2024